HFMD is generally a mild febrile illness with skin rash and mouth ulcers, affecting mostly children and with a self-limiting course. This should not be confused with Foot and Mouth Disease that affects animals.
What Causes HFMD?
HFMD is primarily caused by human enteroviruses such as Coxsackievirus A16 (CA16) and Enterovirus (EV71). Infection wuth EV71 is a particular concern as it may result to severe disease or death in children.What Are The Signs and Symptoms of HFMD?
Febrile illness with papilovesicular rash on palms and soles, with or without vesicules or ulcers in the mouth. Rash mat occasionally be maculopapular without vesicular lesion and may also involve the buttocks, knees or elbows, particularly in younger children and infants.
Complications include:
- Aseptic meningitis
- Acute Flaccid Paralysis
- Death
- Encephalitis
- Cardiorespiratory Failure
Reported Cases in the Philippines
In the Philippines, sporadic cases and small outbreaks of HFMD have been reported. Fatal cases are rarely reported.
How Do You Get HFMD?
HFMD is moderately contagious and infection can be spread from person to person by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from blisters or stool of infected persons.
How Can We Prevent HFMD?
- Practice proper handwashing.
- Observe strict personal hygiene.
- Toys or teaching tools shared with other children should be washed and disinfected.
- Avoid sharing utensils used for drinking and eating, linens, towels and other personal items with the infected person.
For more inquiries, you may contact:
National Epidemiology Center, Department of Health
Event-based Surveillance and Response - 651-7800 loc 2929
Public Health Surveillance and Informatics Division - 651-7800
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